Library is indispensable for student-centred teaching and learning processes such as project method, dalton plan, self-learning or seminars. According to the Secondary Education Commission, library will be the hub and centre of all the intellectual activity in the literary life of the recognized school and play the same part vis-a-vis all the other subjects as the laboratory plays for science subjects or the workshop for technical subjects. In fact even in case of science and technical subjects it will have a very important role. A library provides stimulation and inspiration to both students and teachers, develops interest in subjects and widens the horizon of students. It is not only the nerve centre of academic learning but also a good place to spend one’s leisure-time. Books provide us with the best company when we are idle, lonely, free or bored.
A library exposes a student to one’s culture as well as makes him aware of other cultures, provides him/her with latest knowledge, introduces a students to new literature, thoughts and ideas, intakes him aware of the history and geography of the near and far areas. Today, when there is a tremendous explosion in knowledge at a very fast pace, textbooks no longer provide students with required information. In such a situation, library provides a student with requisite supplementary material and extra reading.
A library is an essential instrument of developing desirable study habits in students. A library also plays an important role in enhancing a teacher’s effectiveness and classroom performance. It promotes individual and group learning, helps in developing students’ vocabulary, enhancing comprehension, developing the habit of silent reading and developing problem-solving attitude among students.